Local Area Attractions

American Museum of Science and Energy

A super-secret city during World War II, Oak Ridge is now a world famous center for energy research and development. The American Museum of Science and Energy is packed with models, movies, demonstrations, devices, gadgets, and machines--all designed to tell the story of energy. This is a story of mystery and drama that has fascinated man ever since he learned to control fire.

Knoxville Zoo

Gorilla Valley, Cheetah Savanna and the African Plains are only a few exciting exhibits you will discover at the Knoxville Zoo. At the Knoxville Zoo, you will experience animals from around the world that are living in the heart of East Tennessee.

Tennessee Valley Railroad

The "Golden Age" of American railroading lasted for about fifty years during which time rail empires were built, two world wars were fought and frequent passenger trains rolled almost everywhere. The Pullman Company provided over 50,000 berths each night and steam locomotives were the power of choice. The Tennessee Valley Railroad was founded in 1961 by a small group of Chattanooga rail fans determined to preserve operating steam passenger trains. From a faint hope in 1957, Tennessee Valley RM has become the largest operating historic railroad in the south.

Peregrine International Museum of Scouting

Walk through the history of the Scout Movement from all around the world. It takes you from the birth of the founder Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell through his exploits in the Boer War as he formulated the idea for the Movement. It then takes you through the first Scouts in England to the spread of Scouting to the United States. There are souvenirs to buy and memoirs to acquire and remember from the past.

The Lost Sea

The Lost Sea is Americas largest underground lake. The temperature remains a pleasant fifty-eight degrees year round, and there are no stairs to climb! Wide sloping walkways take you on an adventure to the many interesting rooms, some of which are among the widest, highest, and largest rooms of any caverns in the Southeast. Upon entering the lake room you will board large glass bottom boats for an exciting trip on the Lost Sea. While on the trip you will observe some of the largest rainbow trout in the United States.

Sequoyah Birthplace Museum

Enjoy the beauty of this museum which is nestled in the majestic Great Smoky Mountains on the shores of the Tellico Lake. Hear fascinating Cherokee myths and legends, marvel at the Cherokee syllabary which took Sequoyah twelve years to develop, but only a few hours for the average person to learn. See the artifacts excavated in the Little Tennessee Valley in two decades of archeological work on sites spanning 8,000 years of continuous human habitation. Shop in the Museum gift shop and visit the Cherokee Memorial adjacent to the Museum.

Sweetwater Valley Farm

Our farm, located between the towns of Philadelphia and Loudon, is in the heart of southeast Tennessees dairy-rich Sweetwater Valley. It is known for its agricultural vitality and progress. Were proud to be a part of this rich farming region. Stop by and enjoy cheese factory tours.

Fleas Unlimited Flea Market

We currently have 800 vendor booths in The Sweetwater Flea Market. Many of our vendors have been with us for years, and we've been fortunate to attract a wide range of businesses offering their products and services at great prices. We take pride in our facility, and select vendors carefully to ensure that visitors to The Sweetwater Flea Market have a wonderful shopping experience. Be sure to visit our Indoor Market Section to get a feel for the wide selection of products that can be found only at The Sweetwater Flea Market!

Fort Loudoun

Located in the valley of the Little Tennessee River, near the Appalachian Mountains, Fort Loudoun State Historic Area provides a glimpse of life during the time of the French and Indian War (1754-1763). The future of the North American continent was in the balance as armies from France, Spain and England fought for control of this land and its vast resources. Native Americans were caught up in this struggle as they strove to protect their homes and way of life. Fort Loudoun (1756-1760), in the heart of the Overhill Cherokee country, played a part in that conflict which eventually laid the foundation for our nation we live in today.

Mayfield Dairy Farms

The Visitor Center and Tour takes you on a journey through the history of Mayfield Dairy from its beginnings to the present. Youll see a special film presentation, followed by a plant tour that lets you see the bottling of milk and the production of ice cream and novelty items. Stop for a taste of our delicious milk and great tasting ice cream-made fresh daily.